Flying into Gatwick vs Heathrow
Choosing Between Gatwick and Heathrow for My London Trip
I’m currently in the process of booking my flight to London, but I’m not yet sure where I’ll be staying, which adds a bit of uncertainty. I have two international flights in mind: one to Gatwick that’s about $45 cheaper and is a direct flight, and another to Heathrow that’s slightly more expensive but requires a plane change.
My main concern is how challenging it is to travel from Gatwick to other parts of London. I understand that it varies depending on the zone I end up in, but Gatwick seems quite far. Is it worth it to pay a little extra for a flight into Heathrow, considering the train fare and travel time involved? I have been to London twice before but have never flown into Gatwick, so I’m looking for a local viewpoint. I’m also aware that Gatwick isn’t served by the Tube.
Thanks in advance for your insights!
Edit: I went ahead and booked the direct flight to Gatwick—looks like I’ll be exploring a new part of London! Appreciate everyone’s feedback! 😊
It sounds like you’ve made a great decision! Flying into Gatwick can be very convenient despite it being a bit further out of the city. The Gatwick Express is a direct train service that takes about 30 minutes to Victoria Station, which is pretty quick and frequent. There are also other train options that might take a little longer and be slightly cheaper, like the Thameslink service, which can take you to various stations in central London.
While it’s true that Gatwick isn’t on the Tube, the train connections are solid, and it can be a nice chance to see a different part of London during your journey. Plus, if you do end up staying in a more southern area, you’ll find Gatwick might actually be a more convenient option.
Don’t forget to check where you’re staying in London, as that might influence your final travel time overall. Regardless, with your non-stop flight, you’ll be able to save some time and money. Enjoy your trip and discovering more of London!